Method and apparatus for managing oxygen generating system

ABSTRACT

A system for managing an oxygen generating system including an oxygen storage tank, a compressor, and groups of at least one oxygen generator, wherein the oxygen generating system is configured for supplying a sustained flow of a gaseous mixture comprising mostly oxygen. The system includes at least one controller device. The at least one controller device is configured to control group circuits based at least upon a pressure. Each of the group circuits are for providing power to a particular group of the groups of at least one oxygen generator. The at least one controller device is also configured to control a circuit for providing power to the compressor.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 120 as acontinuation application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/502,279,filed Sep. 30, 2014 and issued as U.S. Pat. No. 9,372,488 on Jun. 21,2016, which claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 120 to U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 14/248,824, filed on Apr. 9, 2014 and issued asU.S. Pat. No. 8,876,941 on Nov. 4, 2014, which claims priority under 35U.S.C. § 120 to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/179,105, filed onFeb. 12, 2014 and issued as U.S. Pat. No. 9,139,434 on Sep. 22, 2015,which claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 120 to U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 13/592,875, filed on Aug. 23, 2012 and issued as U.S. Pat. No.8,702,840 on Apr. 22, 2014, which claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/583,051, filed Jan.4, 2012; U.S. patent application Ser. Nos. 13/592,875, 14/179,105,14/248,824, and 14/502,279 and U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No.61/583,051 are herein incorporated by reference in their entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed generally toward systems, devices,controls, or methods for oxygen generation, oxygen storage, and/oroxygen supply configured to supply sustained high oxygen flow output orhigh oxygen output volumes.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

A continuous high-flow oxygen supply is critical for torch glass artistswho use surface mix glass torches. Surface mix glass torches mix propaneand oxygen creating a controlled flame in the temperature range ofapproximately 2,500 and 3,000 Fahrenheit. Glass torches typically need aconstant supply of fairly pure oxygen (90-95% pure) at 20 to 30 poundsper square inch (psi) depending upon the model of the glass torch.Larger torches may consume 15 to 25 liters per minute (lpm) of oxygen atthat pressure. Oxygen generators (also known as oxygen concentrators) onthe market fail to provide the necessary pressure and/or volume requiredby larger glass torches used for working with large borosilicate glass(“boro”) pieces. Only very expensive larger systems (such as systems forhospitals and universities) provide the necessary pressure and/or volumeof oxygen for working with large borosilicate glass pieces with largerglass torches.

Torch glass artists rely upon gas distributors who rent “K-tanks” ofoxygen. These K-tanks can be returned for refills when needed. A fullK-tank contains oxygen pressurized to 2,200 psi and needs a regulator toreduce the pressure to a desired pressure (e.g., 30 psi). A glass torchartist may utilize an entire K-tank of oxygen within a day or even a fewhours depending on a particular project which the artist is working on.Relying on K-tanks is expensive. Other problems associated with bottledgas include transport and storage hazards, availability, waiting fortank delivery, running out of oxygen mid-project, or dangers associatedwith changing oxygen tanks mid-project.

Currently there is no cost efficient oxygen generator system capable ofproducing a constant source of oxygen for use at sufficient oxygen flowand pressure; additionally, there are no oxygen generating systems whichcan be used with nominal 110 volt outlets without overloading aresidential circuit breaker. Therefore, it may be desirable to provide amethod, apparatus, and system which address the above-referencedproblems.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Accordingly, an embodiment includes a system for managing an oxygengenerating system. The oxygen generating system includes an oxygenstorage tank, a compressor, and groups of at least one oxygen generator.The oxygen generating system is configured for supplying a sustainedflow of a gaseous mixture comprising mostly oxygen. The system includesat least one controller device. The at least one controller device isconfigured to control group circuits based at least upon a pressure.Each of the group circuits are for providing power to a particular groupof the groups of at least one oxygen generator. The at least onecontroller device is also configured to control a circuit for providingpower to the compressor.

Accordingly, an embodiment includes a system for managing a modularlyexpandable oxygen generating system, wherein the modularly expandableoxygen generating system includes a main oxygen generating system anexpansion oxygen generating system. The system includes at least onecontroller device. The at least one controller device is configured tomanage the main oxygen generating system, wherein the main oxygengenerating system includes a main system oxygen storage tank, a mainsystem compressor, and main system groups of at least one oxygengenerator. The main oxygen generating system is configured to supply asustained flow of a gaseous mixture comprising mostly oxygen. The atleast one controller device being configured to manage the main oxygengenerating system includes the at least one controller device beingconfigured to: control main system circuits, each for providing power toa particular group of the main system groups of at least one oxygengenerator; and control an additional main system circuit for providingpower to the main system compressor. The at least one controller deviceis further configured to manage the expansion oxygen generating system,wherein the expansion oxygen generating system includes an expansionsystem oxygen storage tank, an expansion system compressor, and at leastone expansion system oxygen generator. The at least one controllerdevice being configured to manage the expansion oxygen generating systemincludes the at least one controller device being configured to: controlat least one expansion system circuit for providing power to the atleast one expansion system oxygen generator; and control an additionalexpansion system circuit for providing power to the expansion systemcompressor.

Accordingly, an embodiment includes a system for managing an oxygengenerating system. The oxygen generating system includes an oxygenstorage tank, a compressor, and groups of at least one oxygen generator.The oxygen generating system is configured for supplying a sustainedflow of a gaseous mixture comprising mostly oxygen. The system includesmeans for controlling group circuits based at least upon a pressure.Each of the group circuits are for providing power to a particular groupof the groups of at least one oxygen generator. The system also includesmeans for controlling a circuit for providing power to the compressor.

It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description andthe following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory onlyand are not restrictive of the invention claimed. The accompanyingdrawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of thespecification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and together withthe general description, serve to explain the principles.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The numerous objects and advantages of the present invention may bebetter understood by those skilled in the art by reference to theaccompanying figures in which:

FIG. 1A shows a depiction of an embodiment of an oxygen generatingsystem;

FIG. 1B shows a depiction of a further embodiment of an oxygengenerating system with remote relays and outlet boxes;

FIG. 2 shows a diagram of a portion of an embodiment of the inventionincluding two pressure switches;

FIG. 3 shows a diagram of a portion of an embodiment of the inventionincluding a control box with two pressure switches;

FIG. 4 shows a diagram of a portion of an embodiment of the inventionincluding a digital controller, two relays, and a pressure sensor;

FIG. 5 shows a diagram of a portion of an embodiment of the inventionincluding a digital controller, two relays, and a pressure sensor;

FIG. 6 shows a diagram of a portion of an embodiment of the inventionincluding a control box with a digital controller and relays;

FIG. 7 shows a diagram of a portion of an embodiment of the inventionincluding a control box with a digital controller and relays;

FIG. 8 shows a diagram of an embodiment of an oxygen generating systemwith remote relay and outlet boxes;

FIG. 9 shows a diagram of an embodiment of an oxygen generating systemwith remote relays and outlet boxes;

FIG. 10 shows a diagram of an embodiment of an oxygen generating systemconfigured for modular expansion;

FIG. 11 depicts a method for managing pressure of an oil-less tank ofoxygen; and

FIG. 12 depicts a method for managing pressure of an oil-less tank ofoxygen.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Reference will now be made in detail to the subject matter disclosed,which is illustrated in the accompanying drawings. The scope of theinvention is limited only by the claims; numerous alternatives,modifications, and equivalents are encompassed. For the purpose ofclarity, technical material that is known in the technical fieldsrelated to the embodiments has not been described in detail to avoidunnecessarily obscuring the description.

Embodiments of the invention may include an oxygen generating system,one or more components of the oxygen generating system, and methods ofmanaging or controlling the oxygen generating system. The oxygengenerating system may include a plurality of oxygen generators, acontrol box, an oxygen storage tank, and a vacuum pump compressor.Embodiments of the invention may further include the demodulation of amodular oxygen generating system into a plurality of independent oxygengenerating systems; similarly, embodiments of the invention may includethe demodulation of a modular oxygen generating system into a smallermodular oxygen generating system and one or more independent oxygengenerating systems.

The vacuum pump compressor may be configured to draw oxygen frommultiple oxygen generators (which produce oxygen at low pressures, suchas between 5 and 15 psi), to compress the generated oxygen to a higherpressure (such as 80 to 100 psi), and then to pump the oxygen to anoxygen storage tank. Embodiments of the invention may include themodular expandability of a plurality of independent oxygen generatingsystems into a modular oxygen generating system, wherein the modularoxygen generating system includes a main control box and one or moredrone control boxes.

Embodiments of the invention may include one or more control boxes. Thecontrol box may include one or more controller devices (such as adigital controller, analog controller, pressure switch, or pneumaticcontroller); a pump or compressor; one or more relays; one or more powercords configured to provide power; one or more power outlets (or banksor groups of outlets) configured to provide power to one or more oxygengenerators; one or more oxygen inlet ports configured to receive oxygenfrom one or more oxygen generators; one or more oxygen outlet portsconfigured to supply oxygen from the pump or compressor to an oxygenstorage tank; one or more pressure sensors or transducers; one or morevalves (such as one or more of the following: safety release valves,shut-off valves, balancing valves, control valves, solenoid valves,pressure regulating valves, check valves, or solenoid safety valves).

In some implementations, the one or more control boxes may include oneor more communication ports or jacks configured to send or receivecommunications or signals via one or more wires or cables (such as USBcables, Thunderbolt cables, FireWire, Ethernet cables, coaxial cables,optical fiber cables, or other wires or cables) to one or more of thefollowing: to one or more other control boxes; to one or more remoterelay and outlet boxes; to one or more other relays; to one or morecontrol valves or solenoid valves; to one or more wired or wirelessnetworks (such as a local area network (LAN) or a wireless area network(WAN)); to one or more storage devices; to one or more computingdevices; or to one or more computer systems. In further implementations,the one or more control boxes may include one or more receivers and/orantennas configured to send and/or receive wireless communications orsignals (including communications or signals sent or received viaelectromagnetic waves, such as via radio-frequency signals) to one ormore of the following: to one or more other control boxes; to one ormore remote relay and outlet boxes; to one or more other relays; to oneor more control valves or solenoid valves; to one or more wired orwireless networks (such as a local area network (LAN) or a wireless areanetwork (WAN)); to one or more storage devices; to one or more computingdevices; or to one or more computer systems.

The control box may include an exterior case. The exterior case mayinclude one or more openings, apertures, open surfaces, perforatedsurfaces, or grates. The exterior of the control box may further includeone or more on/off buttons (such as on/off toggle switches). Forexample, the exterior of the control box may include a master on/offbutton, one or more on/off buttons configured to correspond to eachpower cord, one more on/off buttons configured to correspond to eachgroup of power outlets configured to power one or more oxygengenerators, and/or an on/off button configured to correspond to the pumpor compressor. The exterior of the control box may also include controlsfor controlling or adjusting the oxygen generating system. The exteriorof the control box may include a display (such as an LCD display). Insome implementations, the display may be a touch-screen display and mayinclude a user interface for displaying, controlling, or adjustingcharacteristics of components of the oxygen generating system. Thedisplay may be communicatively coupled with the digital controllerand/or other computing devices, a computer system, or the like.

In some implementations, the one or more power cords may be removable ordisconnectable from the control box such that one or more unused powercords can be disconnected. By way of example, the one or more powercords may include two removable or disconnectable 110 volt (nominal)power cords and one removable or disconnectable 220 volt (nominal) powercord. That is, for example, if the control box is receiving power via a220 volt (nominal) power circuit, two or more 110 volt (nominal) powercords may be disconnected; on the other hand, if the control box isreceiving power via two or more 110 volt (nominal) power circuits, theone or more 220 volt (nominal) power cord may be disconnected.

When one or more power cords are connected to the control box andplugged in to a power source, the power cords are configured to supplypower from the power source to one or more components of the control boxor oxygen generating system. For example, the one or more power cordsmay supply power to one or more controller device (such as a digitalcontroller), a pump or compressor, one or more power outlets configuredto provide power to oxygen generators, to one or more pressure sensors,to one or more receivers or antennas, or one or more other electricallypowered components of the control box, or one or more electricallypowered components receiving power from the control box.

In some implementations, the one or more power cords may be associatedwith a particular circuit or circuits. For example, a first power cord,which receives power from a first power source (e.g., a first nominal110 volt power source on a first fully designated 20 amp breaker or afirst residential power source), may supply power to a first circuitassociated with a first bank of oxygen generators, and second powercord, which receives power from a second power source (e.g., a secondnominal 110 volt power source on a second fully designated 20 ampbreaker or a second residential power source), may supply power to asecond circuit associated with a second bank of oxygen generators. Onthe other hand, a single power source (e.g., a nominal 220 volt powersource on a fully designated 40 amp breaker, a three-phase nominal 220volt power source, an industrial power source, or a commercial powersource) may supply power through a single power cord to supply power toa first circuit associated with a first bank of oxygen generators and toa second circuit associated with a second bank of oxygen generators.

The one or more controller devices of the control box may be configuredto manage or control the pressure within the oxygen storage tank. Theone or more controller devices may be configured to manage, adjust, orcontrol the operation of the oxygen generators and the pump orcompressor. The one or more controller devices may receive or react toinputs/outputs signals, signals, or communications from pressuresensors, pressure switches, pneumatic lines, other control boxes,networks, computing devices, or computer systems, or the like. The oneor more controller devices may further send signals, outputs, or othercommunications to relays, other control boxes, other controller devices,networks, computing devices, or computer systems.

In some embodiments, the one or more controller devices may include theuse of one or more relays to activate or control one or more electricalcircuits associated with the oxygen generating system. For example, oneor more relays may be used to control a first circuit associated with afirst bank of oxygen generators and a second circuit associated with asecond bank of oxygen generators. By way of example, at least onepressure switch or pressure sensor may be configured to detect apressure and then send a signal to one or more relays; in response tothe signal, the one or more relays may then switch the first and secondcircuit on or off. Each of the relays may be configured to control acircuit in response to a signal or by a signal. The relays may also becontactors configured for directly controlling electrical equipment. Arelay may also be used to control the oil-less oxygen vacuumpump/compressor. In some implementations, the relays may includesolid-state relays configured to control power circuits with no movingparts through the use of semiconductor devices to perform switching. Insome implementations, the relays may include protective relays withcalibrated operating characteristics and multiple operating coils usedto protect electrical circuits from overload or faults.

In some implementations, the one or more relays may be located outsideof the control box (such as in a remote relay and outlet box located incloser proximity to the oxygen generators).

In some implementations, the one or more controller devices may includeone or more digital controllers. A digital controller may be configuredto control various circuits and components of the oxygen generatingsystem. For example, the digital controller may be communicativelycoupled with one or more pressure sensors. Each of the one or morepressure sensors may sense a pressure associated with the oxygen storagetank. Each of the one or more pressure sensors may be located at, as apart of the oxygen storage tank, or on a pressure sensor line. Thedigital controller may receive continuous, periodic, orpressure-specific signals from the one or more pressure sensors. Thesignals received from the one or more pressure sensors may be electronicor wireless. When the digital controller receives the signal, thedigital controller may switch one or more circuits on or off. In someimplementations, switching a circuit on or off may include the use ofrelays incorporated into the digital controller or communicativelycoupled to the digital controller. The digital controller may beconfigured to control whether each component of the oxygen generatingsystem receives power or the amount of power each component receives.For example, the digital controller may control each of the followingcomponents: the oxygen compressor, a first bank of oxygen generators, asecond bank of oxygen generators, individual oxygen generators of eachbank of oxygen generators, and electronic sensors or gauges. The digitalcontroller may be configured to send signals to other switches or relayslocated in the system for switching on or off or otherwise controllingother system components.

The digital controller may be configured to automatically manage theoxygen generating system. The digital controller may receive pressuresignals from one or more pressure sensors, wherein the pressure signalsare associated with a pressure of the oxygen storage tank. Based uponthe pressure signal from the pressure sensor or other sensors, thedigital controller may determine the pressure of the oxygen storagetank. The digital controller may then compare the determined pressurewith various threshold values and determine what action to take. Eachthreshold value may be associated with a storage tank pressure and anaction for the digital controller to take. Based upon the determinedpressure of the oxygen storage tank and threshold pressure values, thedigital controller may leave the system operating in its current state(e.g., status quo state), turn on or off the oxygen compressor, turn onor off the first bank of oxygen generators, turn on or off the secondbank of oxygen generators, turn on or off individual oxygen generatorsof each bank of oxygen generators, open or close control or solenoidvalves, display data, send communication signals, or variably adjust thepower to each bank of oxygen generators, individual oxygen generators,or the oxygen compressor.

For example, in some embodiments the digital controller may manage anoxygen generating system in the following manner:

-   -   receiving electrical power;    -   receiving a first pressure signal associated with a first        pressure;    -   determining the first pressure to be less than or equal to a        first startup threshold pressure, said first pressure associated        with a gaseous pressure of the oil-less tank;    -   providing electrical power to the oil-less air compressor;    -   completing a first electrical circuit, said first electrical        circuit for providing electrical power to a first bank of at        least one pressure swing adsorption oxygen generator;    -   providing electrical power to the first circuit;    -   receiving a second pressure signal associated with a second        pressure;    -   determining the second pressure to be less than or equal to a        second startup threshold pressure, said second pressure        associated with a gaseous pressure of the oil-less tank, wherein        the second startup threshold pressure is greater than the first        startup threshold pressure;    -   completing a second electrical circuit, said second circuit for        providing power to a second bank of at least one pressure swing        adsorption oxygen generator;    -   providing electrical power to the second circuit;    -   receiving a third pressure signal associated with a third        pressure;    -   determining the third pressure to be greater than or equal to a        first shutoff threshold pressure, said third pressure associated        with a gaseous pressure of the oil-less tank;    -   opening the first circuit;    -   cutting power to the first circuit;    -   receiving a fourth pressure signal associated with a fourth        pressure;    -   determining the fourth pressure to be greater than or equal to a        second shutoff threshold pressure, said fourth pressure        associated with a gaseous pressure of the oil-less tank, wherein        the second shutoff threshold pressure is greater than the first        shutoff threshold pressure;    -   opening the second circuit;    -   cutting power to the second circuit; and    -   cutting power to the oil-less air compressor.

The digital controller may include a digital display configured to readout various data associated with the system, such as oxygen storage tankpressure; oxygen storage tank volume; oxygen storage tank mols (orcorresponding unit of measure); oxygen compressor output pressure;oxygen compressor output flow; oxygen compressor input pressure; oxygencompressor input flow; whether the oxygen storage tank is currentlygaining oxygen or losing oxygen; oxygen compressor power status (e.g.,“on”/“off”/“standby”); first circuit power/first bank of oxygengenerators status (e.g., “on”/“off”/“standby”); second circuit/secondbank of oxygen generators power status (e.g., “on”/“off”/“standby”);first circuit voltage and amperage data; second circuit voltage andamperage data; and/or individual oxygen generator power status (e.g.,“on”/“off”/“standby”) of each bank of oxygen generators. The digitalcontroller may be communicatively coupled with necessary components forobtaining and/or calculating the above various data, includingvoltmeters, amp meters, flow meters/sensors, pressure sensors/meters, orthe like. The digital display associated with the digital controller maybe configured for a user or computer system to input specificinformation relating to an oxygen generating system such as the capacityof the oxygen storage tank, the individual output parameters ofindividual oxygen generators, or the output specification of the oxygencompressor.

The digital controller may include necessary computer hardwarecomponents including one or more processors, circuit boards, memory,storage, busses, controllers, receivers, transmitters, ports, networkingcomponents, software, and/or firmware. The digital controller may beconfigured to wirelessly or through-wires communicate over a networkwith other computing devices, sensors, relays, valves (such as controlvalves or solenoid valves), system components, or equipment. Forexample, the digital controller may send signals (e.g., low voltagesignals) through USB cables to relays which are configured to switchbanks of oxygen generators off or on.

In some implementations, the one or more controller devices of thecontrol box may be one or more pressure switches (e.g., two pressureswitches) or may include one or more pressure switches (e.g., twopressure switches). Each of the pressure switches may be configured tocontrol whether power is provided to a particular oxygen generator or abank of oxygen generators. The pressure switches may respond to apressure of the tank by either opening or closing circuits associatedwith a particular bank of oxygen generators. Each of the one or morepressure switches may be associated with controlling or configured tocontrol a particular bank of oxygen generators simultaneously orsynchronously. The one or more pressure switches may have adjustablepressure differentials. (The pressure differential of a pressure switchis the difference in two pressures settings of a particular pressureswitch, such that the particular pressure switch “switches on (or off)”in response to a sensed first pressure and “switches off (or on)” inresponse to a sensed second pressure.)

In some implementations, the one or more controller devices of thecontrol box may be one or more pneumatic controllers. The pneumaticcontroller may be a pneumatic logic system implemented through any ofthe following: one or more “and” units; one or more “or” units; one ormore relay or booster units; one or more latching units; one or moretimer units; one or more analog pneumatic computers (e.g., Sortebergrelays); or one or more fluidics amplifiers.

Embodiments of the invention may include or be configured to include oneor more oxygen generators (also known as oxygen concentrators). Theoxygen generators may comprise pressure swing adsorption oxygengenerators. Each of the oxygen generators may be configured to receivepower via a standard plug, plugged into a standard electrical outlet(such as a standard residentially rated and shaped electrical outlet).Each of the oxygen generators of the oxygen generating system may be astandalone oxygen generator such that each oxygen generator,independently, is configured to produce oxygen at a relatively lowpressure and output flow. Because each of the oxygen generators maystandalone and includes standard electrical connectivity, one or moreoxygen generators of an oxygen generation system may be quickly andreadily removed, exchanged, replaced, or added. Additionally, becauseeach oxygen generator may stand alone and includes standardconnectivity, particular oxygen generators of a bank or oxygengenerating system may comprise non-uniform makes, models, orspecifications.

There are various oxygen generators (also known as oxygen concentrators)on the market which can produce oxygen with a range of low pressures andlow flow rates. An example of one manufacturer's specifications foroxygen generator models is as follows in Table 1.

TABLE 1 Oper- ating Flow Flow Pres- per per Soft Small Medium Large sureMinute Hour Purity Glass Boro Boro Boro EX-  7  5 10.59 95% Y N N N 5PSI LPM SCFH EX- 10  5 10.59 95% Y Y N N 10 PSI LPM SCFH EX- 15  8 16.9495% Y Y Y N 15 PSI LPM SCFH H-1 20 15 31.77 95% Y Y Y Y PSI LPM SCFH

Table 1 demonstrates that commercially available oxygen generators failto provide the necessary pressure and/or volume required for workingwith large borosilicate glass (“boro”) pieces with larger glass torches.Only very expensive larger systems (such as systems for hospitals anduniversities) provide the necessary pressure and/or volume for workingwith large borosilicate glass pieces with larger glass torches. Whilelinking the oxygen output of a few of the smaller generators togetherincreases oxygen flow output, linking the oxygen output of a few of thesmaller generators together still fails to provide the required oxygenflow at the necessary pressure for working with large borosilicate glasspieces. Additionally, a nominal 110 volt/20 amp power source has alimitation of how many oxygen generators can be linked together beforethe power source is overloaded. For example, plugging in four oxygengenerators may overload an electrical circuit rated for 20 amps.

An oxygen generating system may include or be configured to include oneor more oxygen generators such that the oxygen generating system isconfigure to provide a sustained flow of oxygen at a pressure and flowrate suited for particular end-use purposes, such as an oxygen supplyfor one or more glass torches. The oxygen generators of the oxygengenerating system may be configured or arranged in one or more groups(such as banks). Each group or bank of oxygen generators may include oneor more oxygen generators (such as one, two, three, four, five, six,seven, or more oxygen generators). Each of the groups or banks of oxygengenerators may be synchronized such that all oxygen generators of a bankof oxygen generators may be synchronously or simultaneously controlledby one or more controller devices. For example, a controller device maysynchronously or simultaneously power on, power off, reduce the output,increase the output, or the like of a bank of oxygen generators.Implementations of the invention may include one or more banks of oxygengenerators (such as one bank, two banks, three banks, or four banks,etc.). Furthermore, individual oxygen generators may be removed,exchanged, repaired, or replaced without causing the rest of the oxygengenerator system to fail.

Some embodiments may include a toggle switch or toggle button configuredfor alternating the order of the first circuit and second circuit,wherein an alternated second circuit becomes the first circuit and analternated first circuit becomes the second circuit.

Embodiments of the invention may include a pump or compressor configuredto compress the generated oxygen received from the oxygen generators andpump compressed oxygen to the storage tank. The pump or compressor mayinclude a vacuum pump compressor. The pump or compressor may be anoil-less pump or compressor configured to pump oxygen and other gassesor designed specifically to pump oxygen. The oil-less feature of thepump reduces or eliminates the possibility of combustion of oxygen andoil within the pump. The pump or compressor may be able to operate undera variety of pressures and flow rates in order to accommodate a variablenumber of oxygen generators (such as between one and seven oxygengenerators).

The pump or compressor may be a variable speed or multi-stage pump orcompressor (such as a two-stage vacuum pump). The pump or compressormust be oil-less to prevent combustion of the oxygen. The pump orcompressor may be controlled by a digital controller or relay. Forexample, suitable pumps or compressors may be capable of and configuredto compress gasses to maximum pressures ranging from at least 30 psi toin excess of 200 psi.

The pump or compressor may include an inlet and an outlet. The inlet ofthe pump or compressor may be configured to receive oxygen from one ormore oxygen generators through tubing or piping connecting the inlet ofthe pump or compressor to outlets of the one or more oxygen generators.The outlet of the pump or compressor may be configured to supply oxygento the storage tank through tubing or piping connecting the outlet ofthe pump or compressor to an inlet of the storage tank.

The pump or compressor may be accompanied by or enclosed by a pumphousing. The pump housing may be uninsulated to prevent thermaloverload; however, in some implementations, the pump housing maycomprise an insulated housing (such as an internally insulated,externally insulated, semi-insulated, acoustically insulated, ornon-thermally insulated housing). The pump housing may comprise apartially, mostly, or fully enclosed enclosure, such as a box. The pumphousing may include vents, heat sinks, and/or one or more cooling units(such as fans) configured to minimize thermal overload. One or moresides or surfaces of the pump housing may allow for the free or forcedmovement of air. For example, one or more sides or surfaces of the pumphousing may include grates or perforations. In other implementations ofthe invention, the pump housing may include noise damping elements suchas noise reducing insulation. The pump housing may be contained within,attached to, adjacent to, or connected to, or comprise all or a portionof the exterior of the control box. In some implementations the pump orcompressor and associated pump housing may not be located in the controlbox.

The storage tank may comprise a completely oil-less tank configured tohold compressed gasses, including oxygen. The storage tank may bespecifically designed to hold oxygen. The storage tank may be oil-lessto prevent combustion of the oxygen. Suitable storage tanks may have anyof various maximum pressure capacity ratings, (such as 50 psi, 100 psi,200 psi, or 1000 psi). The tank may include one or more inlets and oneor more outlets. The tank may also include one or more ports. Thestorage tank may include one or more threaded reinforced bungs. Thethreaded reinforced bungs may be configured to accommodate one or morepressure sensors, one or more oxygen sensors, one or more back flowvalves, one or more check valves, one or more oxygen inlets, one or moreoxygen outlets, or the like. The output side of the oxygen storage tankmay include one or more pressure regulators so that oxygen flow can beadjusted at one end-use point without resulting in a fluctuation in flowto other end-use points.

Referring to FIG. 1A, an embodiment of an oxygen generating system isdepicted. In some implementations, the oxygen generating system mayinclude a high volume and low pressure oxygen generating system, a highvolume and high pressure oxygen generating system, or a high-flow outputoxygen generating system. A control box 111 receives power from one ormore power cords (e.g., 101 and 103). For example, a first power cord(e.g., 101) may supply power to the control box 111 from a first powersource (e.g., a first nominal 110 volt, 20 amp electrical circuit), anda second power cord (e.g., 101) may supply power to the control box 111from a second power source (e.g., a second nominal 110 volt, 20 ampelectrical circuit).

The control box 111 may include one or more on/off switches (e.g., 115)and one or more ventilation fans (e.g., 113). The control box mayinclude a pump or compressor, such as an oil-less vacuum pumpcompressor. The control box may include a controller device (such as adigital controller or pressure switches) and relays. The controllerdevice may be configured to control the operation of the pump orcompressor and one or more oxygen generators (e.g., 141-146). Thecontroller device of the control box 111 may be configured to controlthe supply of power through one or more power supply cords 117 to theone or more oxygen generating systems (e.g., 141-146).

The one or more oxygen generators may be arranged in one or more banks,such as a first bank of oxygen generators (e.g., 141-143) and a secondbank of oxygen generators (e.g., 144-146). The controller device of thecontrol box 111 may be configured to control the supply of power to eachof the one or more banks of oxygen generators (e.g., 141-143 and144-146). By way of example, a first bank of oxygen generators (e.g.,141-143) may receive power via the control box through power suppliedfrom a first power source to the control box through the first powercord 101; a second bank of oxygen generators (e.g., 144-146) may receivepower via the control box through power supplied from a second powersource to the control box through the second power cord 103.

Each bank of oxygen generators (e.g., 141-143 or 144-146) may beconfigured to be controlled by the controller device of the control box111. Each bank of oxygen generators (e.g., 141-143 or 144-146) maygenerate oxygen and supply the oxygen to an inlet of the control box 111through oxygen tubing, hoses, or piping (e.g., 151, 153, and 157).Oxygen tubing, hoses, or piping 151, 153 from the oxygen generators141-146 may enter an oxygen manifold 155 to merge the oxygen lines intoa single oxygen hose, tube, or pipe 157 which connects to an inlet onthe control box 111.

The oxygen tubing, hose, or piping (e.g., 157) may supply oxygen fromthe oxygen generators through an inlet of the control box 111 to a pumpor compressor of the control box 111. The pump or compressor of thecontrol box 111 may compress the oxygen and pump the oxygen to theoxygen tank 121. The oxygen tank 121 may store the oxygen for later use.When oxygen is needed the tank may supply oxygen through oxygen tubing,a hose, or piping 127 to one or more pieces of equipment (such as afurnace, medical equipment, or veterinary equipment), an oxygendestination (such as an oxygen outlet), or an end-use device (such as aglass torch 135). For example, a glass torch 135 may receive oxygen andpropane, whereby the oxygen is supplied via an oxygen line (e.g., 127)connected to the oxygen tank 121 and propane is supplied via a propaneline 137 connected to a propane tank 131. The oxygen line (e.g., 127)may include one or more pressure regulating valves 125, safety releasevalves 123, shut-off valves, solenoid valves, control valves, or othervalves. Each of the one or more pressure regulating valves (e.g., 125)may be adjusted to control the flow and/or pressure of the oxygenthrough an oxygen supply line (e.g., 127). In some implementations, oneor more of the pressure regulating valves (e.g., 125) may be controlledby the controller device (such as a digital controller) of the controlbox 111.

Referring to FIG. 1B, an embodiment of an oxygen generating system witha main control unit and remote relays and outlet boxes is depicted. Anembodiment may include a main control unit 170. The main control unitmay include a control box (e.g., 110) (or the components of the controlbox (e.g., 110)) and an oxygen tank. For example, the main control unitmay include a digital controller, an oxygen tank, and a compressionsystem. The main control unit 170 can maintain optimized workingpressures through automated digital pressure regulation. The maincontrol unit 170 can control two or more banks of oxygen generators(141-143 and 144-146) separately to improve energy efficiency, improveprecise oxygen flow control, and to reduce wear and tear on oxygengenerators 141-146. The oxygen tank of the main control unit 170 mayinclude an oil-less tank with a storage volume capacity (such as 30gallons or 60 gallons) and may be configured to contain pressurizedoxygen (such as oxygen between 40 psi and 95 psi). The weight of themain control unit may be less than 200 pounds (such as 145 pounds or 190pounds) such that one or two people may be able to install and setup themain control unit 170 and oxygen generating system. The main controlunit 170 can be connected to one or more drone units/drone control unitsfor modular expansion of the oxygen generating system, wherein a droneunit may include an oxygen tank, a compression system, and/or relayboxes.

The main control unit 170 receives power through a power cord 819 whichmay receive power from a power source 801 (such as a power outlet of anominal 110 volt, 20 amp electrical circuit). The power source 801 canbe a power outlet on a 110 volt, 20 amp electrical circuit on a breaker(such as a 15 or 20 amp breaker). In some implementations, the powersource 801 may include a power source on a fully dedicated breaker orshared breaker.

The one or more oxygen generators may be arranged in one or more banks,such as a first bank of oxygen generators (e.g., 141-143) and a secondbank of oxygen generators (e.g., 144-146). The digital controller of themain control unit 170 may control the supply of power to each of the oneor more banks of oxygen generators (e.g., 141-143 and 144-146).

Each bank of oxygen generators (e.g., 141-143 or 144-146) may beconfigured to be controlled by the controller device of the main controlunit 170. Each bank of oxygen generators (e.g., 141-143 or 144-146) maygenerate oxygen and supply the oxygen to an inlet of the main controlunit 170 through oxygen tubing, hoses, or piping (e.g., 151, 153, and157). The oxygen tubing, hose, or piping (e.g., 157) may supply oxygenfrom the oxygen generators through an inlet of the main control unit 170to a pump or compressor of the main control unit. The pump or compressorof the main control unit 170 may compress the oxygen and pump the oxygento the oxygen tank of the main control unit 170. The oxygen tank of themain control unit 170 may store the oxygen for later use. When oxygen isneeded the tank may supply oxygen through oxygen tubing, a hose, orpiping to one or more pieces of equipment (such as a furnace, medicalequipment, or veterinary equipment), an oxygen destination (such as anoxygen outlet), or an end-use device (such as a glass torch 135).

The first remote relay and outlet box 911 may be located away from theoxygen tank of the main control unit 170. The first remote relay andoutlet box 911 may include an electrical line 951 connected to a powersource 901; a first relay connected to the electrical line 951,communication cable or wire 961, 963, and power outlets for each oxygengenerator; and the power outlets for the oxygen generators 141-143. Forexample, the power source 901 may be a 110 volt, 20 amp power source ona fully designated 20 amp breaker. Power cords 955 of the oxygengenerators 141-143 may be plugged into power outlets of the remote relayand outlet box 911. The first relay 833 may be configured to receivepower from the power source 901 via the electrical line 951,controllably provide power to power outlets for oxygen generators141-143, and receive and/or send signals from or to the digitalcontroller of the main control unit 170 via the communication cable orwire 961. The first remote relay and outlet box may further allowsignals to be passed between a second remote relay and outlet box 913and the digital controller of the main control unit 170 via thecommunication cable or wire 963.

The second remote relay and outlet box 913 may be located away from theoxygen tank of the main control unit 170. The second remote relay andoutlet box 913 may include an electrical line 953 connected to a powersource 903; a first relay connected to the electrical line 953,communication cable or wire 963, and power outlets for each oxygengenerator 144-146; and the power outlets for the oxygen generators144-146. For example, the power source 903 may be a 110 volt, 20 amppower source on a fully designated 20 amp breaker. Power cords 957 ofthe oxygen generators 141-143 may be plugged into power outlets of theremote relay and outlet box 913. The first relay 833 may be configuredto receive power from the power source 901 via the electrical line 953,controllably provide power to power outlets for oxygen generators141-143, and receive and/or send signals from or to the digitalcontroller of the main control unit 170 via the communication cable orwire 961.

Embodiments of the present disclosure can require a minimum of threefully dedicated 15 amp breakers or two fully dedicated 20 amp breakers.For example, power sources 801, 901, and 903 may each be connectedelectrical circuits on a fully dedicated 15 amp breaker; or by furtherexample, power sources 801 and 901 may be connected to an electricalcircuit on a fully dedicated 20 amp breaker, and power source 903 may beconnected to an electrical circuit on a fully dedicated 15 amp or 20 ampbreaker.

Referring to FIG. 2, a diagram of a portion of an embodiment of theinvention including pressure switches is depicted. A first power source(such as a nominal 110 volt, 20 amp power source on a first fullydesignated 20 amp breaker) 211 provides power through a first circuit221 to a first pressure switch 201. A second power source (such as anominal 110 volt, 20 amp power source on a second fully designated 20amp breaker) 212 provides power through a second circuit 222 to a secondpressure switch 202. The first pressure switch 201 may receive powerfrom the first power source 211 via the first circuit 221. The firstpressure switch 201 may include a gas inlet port whereby the firstpressure switch senses the pressure of the gas (e.g., oxygen) which isconnected to the gas inlet port supplied from an oxygen line, piping,hose, or tubing 261 connected to the oxygen tank. The first pressureswitch 201 may be configured to provide power to a first bank of oxygengenerators 141-143 via an electrical circuit 231 connected to the firstbank of oxygen generators 141-143 and the first pressure switch 201. Thefirst pressure switch 201 may be configured to provide power to thefirst bank of oxygen generators when the pressure switch senses anoxygen pressure that is less than or equal to a first threshold pressure(e.g., 35 psi). The first pressure switch 201 may also be configured toturn off or cease to provide power when the first pressure switch 201senses an oxygen pressure that is more than or equal to a secondthreshold power (e.g., 80 psi).

The second pressure switch 202 may receive power from the first powersource 212 via the second circuit 222. The second pressure switch 202may include a gas inlet port whereby the second pressure switch 202senses the pressure of the gas (e.g., oxygen) which is connected to thegas inlet port supplied from an oxygen line, piping, hose, or tubing 262connected to the oxygen tank. The second pressure switch 202 may beconfigured to provide power to a second bank of oxygen generators144-146 via an electrical circuit 232 connected the second bank ofoxygen generators 144-146 and the second pressure switch 202. The secondpressure switch 202 may be configured to provide power to the secondbank of oxygen generators when the pressure switch senses an oxygenpressure that is less than or equal to a third threshold pressure (e.g.,32 psi). The second pressure switch 202 may also be configured to turnoff or cease to provide power when the second pressure switch 202 sensesan oxygen pressure that is more than or equal to a second thresholdpressure (e.g., 77 psi).

The first pressure switch may be configured to turn on the pump orcompressor when the first bank of oxygen generators is turned on; insome implementations, the second pressure switch may be configured toturn on the pump or compressor when the second bank of oxygen generatorsis turned on. Similarly, the second pressure switch may be configured toturn off the pump or compressor when the second bank of oxygengenerators is turned off; in some implementations, the first pressureswitch may be configured to turn off the pump or compressor when thefirst bank of oxygen generators is turned off.

Referring to FIG. 3, a diagram of a control box 111 of an embodiment ofthe invention is depicted. The control box 111 may include a pump orcompressor (e.g. a vacuum pump 301); pressure switches (e.g., 201, 202);power outlets 311 for a first bank of oxygen generators; power outlets312 for a second bank of oxygen generators; a first power cord 101 forproviding power to a first pressure switch; a second power cord 103 forproviding power to a second pressure switch; one or more safety solenoidvalves (e.g., 321); one or more safety release valves (e.g., 323); oneor more oxygen inlet ports (e.g., 303); one or more oxygen outlet ports(e.g., 309); electrical lines 231 connected between the power outlets311 for the first bank of oxygen generators and the first pressureswitch 201; electrical lines 232 connected between the power outlets 312for the second bank of oxygen generators and the second pressure switch202; electrical lines (not shown) connecting the pump or compressor(e.g., 301) to one or more of the pressure switches (e.g., 201, 202) ora power source; oxygen tubing, piping, or hose 305 connecting the oxygeninlet port (e.g., 303) to the pump or compressor (e.g., 301); and/oroxygen tubing, piping, or hose 307 connecting the pump or compressor(e.g., 301) to the oxygen outlet port (e.g., 303), the first pressureswitch 201, the second pressure switch 202, the safety release valve323, and/or the safety solenoid valve 321.

Referring to FIG. 4, a diagram of a portion of an embodiment of theinvention including a digital controller 403 is depicted. A first powersource (such as a nominal 110 volt, 20 amp power source connected to afirst fully designated 20 amp breaker) 411 provides power through afirst circuit 421 to a first relay 401. A second power source (such as anominal 110 volt, 20 amp power source connected to a second fullydesignated 20 amp breaker) 412 provides power through a second circuit422 to a second relay 402.

A digital controller 403 may be communicatively connected to the firstrelay 401, the second relay 402, and/or one or more pressure sensors(e.g., 405). The digital controller 403 may receive signals from apressure sensor 405, whereby each of the signals indicates a pressureassociated with the system (such as a pressure associated with an oxygenstorage tank connected to the pressure sensor via oxygen tubing, hoses,or piping (e.g., 441)).

In response to signals received from one or more pressure sensors (e.g.,405), the digital controller 403 may control one or more of the firstrelay 401 or the second relay 402. As a first example, the pressuresensor 405 may sense a first pressure. The pressure sensor 405 may thensend a signal corresponding to the first sensed pressure to the digitalcontroller 403. The digital controller 403 may determine that the firstpressure is less than or equal to a first threshold pressure (e.g., 35psi). Based upon the signal corresponding to the first pressure beingless than or equal to a first threshold pressure, the digital controller403 may send a signal to the first relay 401 to provide power to thefirst bank 251 of oxygen generators 141-143. Upon receiving the signalto provide power from the digital controller 403, the first relay 401may switch the power on or provide power to the first bank 251 of oxygengenerators 141-143.

As a second example, the pressure sensor 405 may sense a secondpressure. The pressure sensor 405 may then send a signal correspondingto the second sensed pressure to the digital controller 403. The digitalcontroller 403 may determine that the second pressure is greater than orequal to a second threshold pressure (e.g., 80 psi). Based upon thesignal corresponding to the second pressure being greater than or equalto a second threshold pressure, the digital controller 403 may send asignal to the first relay 401 to cease to provide power to the firstbank 251 of oxygen generators 141-143. Upon receiving the signal tocease to provide power from the digital controller 403, the first relay401 may switch the power off or cease to provide power to the first bank251 of oxygen generators 141-143.

As a third example, the pressure sensor 405 may sense a third pressure.The pressure sensor 405 may then send a signal corresponding to thethird sensed pressure to the digital controller 403. The digitalcontroller 403 may determine that the third pressure is less than orequal to a third threshold pressure (e.g., 32 psi). Based upon thesignal corresponding to the third pressure being less than or equal to athird threshold pressure, the digital controller 403 may send a signalto the second relay 402 to provide power to the second bank 252 ofoxygen generators 144-146. Upon receiving the signal to provide powerfrom the digital controller 403, the second relay 402 may switch thepower on or provide power to the second bank 252 of oxygen generators144-146.

As a fourth example, the pressure sensor 405 may sense a fourthpressure. The pressure sensor 405 may then send a signal correspondingto the fourth sensed pressure to the digital controller 403. The digitalcontroller 403 may determine that the fourth pressure is greater than orequal to a fourth threshold pressure (e.g., 77 psi). Based upon thesignal corresponding to the fourth pressure being greater than or equalto a fourth threshold pressure, the digital controller 403 may send asignal to the second relay 401 to cease to provide power to the secondbank 252 of oxygen generators 144-146. Upon receiving the signal tocease to provide power from the digital controller 403, the second relay402 may switch the power off or cease to provide power to the secondbank 252 of oxygen generators 144-146.

The digital controller 403 may be configured to operably control therelays (e.g., 401, 402), and thus, the oxygen generators (e.g.,141-146). In some implementations, the digital controller's ability tocontrol the oxygen generators (141-146) may include the ability to turnon individual oxygen generators; turn off individual oxygen generators;variably control the power supplied to all, some, or individual oxygengenerators; variably control the speed or output of all, some, orindividual oxygen generators; or the like. The digital controller 403may be further configured to control the operation of a pump orcompressor contained within the control box. For example, the digitalcontroller 403 may coordinate the control of the pump or compressor withthe operation of the oxygen generators (e.g., 141-146) such that if anyof the oxygen generators (e.g., 141-146) are currently “on” or receivingpower, the digital controller 403 will control the pump or compressor toalso be “on” or receiving power.

Referring to FIG. 5, a diagram of a portion of an embodiment of theinvention including a digital controller 503 is depicted. A power source(such as a nominal 220 volt/40 amp) power source connected to a fullydesignated 40 amp breaker or three-phase nominal 220 volt power source)511 provides power through a first circuit 521 to a first relay 501. Thepower source 511 provides power through a second circuit 522 to a secondrelay 502.

A digital controller 503 may be communicatively connected to the firstrelay 501, the second relay 502, and/or one or more pressure sensors(e.g., 505). The digital controller 503 may receive signals from apressure sensor 505, whereby each of the signals indicates a pressureassociated with the system (such as a pressure associated with an oxygenstorage tank connected to the pressure sensor via oxygen tubing, hoses,or piping (e.g., 541)).

In response to signals received from one or more pressure sensors (e.g.,505), the digital controller 503 may control one or more of the firstrelay 501 or the second relay 502. As a first example, the pressuresensor 505 may sense a first pressure. The pressure sensor 405 may thensend a signal corresponding to the first sensed pressure to the digitalcontroller 503. The digital controller 503 may determine that the firstpressure is less than or equal to a first threshold pressure (e.g., 35psi). Based upon the signal corresponding to the first pressure beingless than or equal to a first threshold pressure, the digital controller503 may send a signal to the first relay 501 to provide power to thefirst bank 251 of oxygen generators 141-143. Upon receiving the signalto provide power from the digital controller 503, the first relay 501may switch the power on or provide power to the first bank 251 of oxygengenerators 141-143.

As a second example, the pressure sensor 505 may sense a secondpressure. The pressure sensor 505 may then send a signal correspondingto the second sensed pressure to the digital controller 503. The digitalcontroller 503 may determine that the second pressure is greater than orequal to a second threshold pressure (e.g., 80 psi). Based upon thesignal corresponding to the second pressure being greater than or equalto a second threshold pressure, the digital controller 403 may send asignal to the first relay 501 to cease to provide power to the firstbank 251 of oxygen generators 141-143. Upon receiving the signal tocease to provide power from the digital controller 503, the first relay501 may switch the power off or cease to provide power to the first bank251 of oxygen generators 141-143.

As a third example, the pressure sensor 505 may sense a third pressure.The pressure sensor 505 may then send a signal corresponding to thethird sensed pressure to the digital controller 503. The digitalcontroller 503 may determine that the third pressure is less than orequal to a third threshold pressure (e.g., 32 psi). Based upon thesignal corresponding to the third pressure being less than or equal to athird threshold pressure, the digital controller 503 may send a signalto the second relay 502 to provide power to the second bank 252 ofoxygen generators 144-146. Upon receiving the signal to provide powerfrom the digital controller 503, the second relay 502 may switch thepower on or provide power to the second bank 252 of oxygen generators144-146.

As a fourth example, the pressure sensor 505 may sense a fourthpressure. The pressure sensor 505 may then send a signal correspondingto the fourth sensed pressure to the digital controller 503. The digitalcontroller 503 may determine that the fourth pressure is greater than orequal to a fourth threshold pressure (e.g., 77 psi). Based upon thesignal corresponding to the fourth pressure being greater than or equalto a fourth threshold pressure, the digital controller 503 may send asignal to the second relay 501 to cease to provide power to the secondbank 252 of oxygen generators 144-146. Upon receiving the signal tocease to provide power from the digital controller 503, the second relay502 may switch the power off or cease to provide power to the secondbank 252 of oxygen generators 144-146.

The digital controller 503 may be configured to operably control therelays (e.g., 501, 502), and thus, the oxygen generators (e.g.,141-146). In some implementations, the digital controller's ability tocontrol the oxygen generators (141-146) may include the ability to turnon individual oxygen generators; turn off individual oxygen generators;variably control the power supplied to all, some, or individual oxygengenerators; variably control the speed or output of all, some, orindividual oxygen generators; or the like. The digital controller 503may be further configured to control the operation of a pump orcompressor contained within the control box. For example, the digitalcontroller 503 may coordinate the control of the pump or compressor withthe operation of the oxygen generators (e.g., 141-146) such that if anyof the oxygen generators (e.g., 141-146) are currently “on” or receivingpower, the digital controller 503 will control the pump or compressor toalso be “on” or receiving power.

Referring to FIG. 6, a diagram of a control box 111 of an embodiment ofthe invention is depicted. The control box 111 may include a pump orcompressor (e.g. a vacuum pump 301); a digital controller 625; poweroutlets 611 for a first bank of oxygen generators; power outlets 612 fora second bank of oxygen generators; a first power cord 101 for providingpower to a first relay 621; a second power cord 103 for providing powerto a second relay 622; one or more safety solenoid valves (e.g., 321);one or more safety release valves (e.g., 323); one or more oxygen inletports (e.g., 303); one or more oxygen outlet ports (e.g., 309);electrical lines 631 connected between the power outlets 611 for thefirst bank of oxygen generators and the first relay 621; electricallines 632 connected between the power outlets 612 for the second bank ofoxygen generators and the second relay 622; cables or wiring 633connecting the first relay 621 to the digital controller 625; cables orwiring 634 connecting the second relay 622 to the digital controller625; cables or wiring 635 connecting the digital controller 625 to apressure sensor 627, which is configured to sense the pressure of anoxygen tank 121; electrical lines (not shown) connecting the pump orcompressor (e.g., 301) to one or more of relays (e.g., 621, 622) or apower source; oxygen tubing, piping, or hose 305 connecting the oxygeninlet port (e.g., 303) to the pump or compressor (e.g., 301); and/oroxygen tubing, piping, or hose 307 connecting the pump or compressor(e.g., 301) to the oxygen outlet port (e.g., 303), the safety releasevalve 323, and/or the safety solenoid valve 321.

Referring to FIG. 7, a diagram of a control box 111 of an embodiment ofthe invention is depicted. The control box 111 may include a pump orcompressor (e.g. a vacuum pump 301); a digital controller 725; poweroutlets 711 for a first bank of oxygen generators; power outlets 712 fora second bank of oxygen generators; a first power cord 701 for providingpower to a first relay 721 and to a second relay 722; one or more safetysolenoid valves (e.g., 321); one or more safety release valves (e.g.,323); one or more oxygen inlet ports (e.g., 303); one or more oxygenoutlet ports (e.g., 309); electrical lines 731 connected between thepower outlets 711 for the first bank of oxygen generators and the firstrelay 721; electrical lines 732 connected between the power outlets 712for the second bank of oxygen generators and the second relay 722;cables or wiring 733 connecting the first relay 721 to the digitalcontroller 725; cables or wiring 734 connecting the second relay 722 tothe digital controller 725; cables or wiring 735 connecting the digitalcontroller 725 to a pressure sensor 727, which is configured to sensethe pressure of an oxygen tank 121; electrical lines (not shown)connecting the pump or compressor (e.g., 301) to one or more of relays(e.g., 721, 722) or a power source; oxygen tubing, piping, or hose 305connecting the oxygen inlet port (e.g., 303) to the pump or compressor(e.g., 301); and/or oxygen tubing, piping, or hose 307 connecting thepump or compressor (e.g., 301) to the oxygen outlet port (e.g., 303),the safety release valve 323, and/or the safety solenoid valve 321.

Referring to FIG. 8, a diagram of an embodiment of an oxygen generatingsystem 800 is depicted. The oxygen generating system 800 may include acontrol box 811; an oxygen tank 821; oxygen generators 851-856; a firstremote relay and outlet box 831; a second remote relay and outlet box841; power sources (e.g., 801, 803, 805); oxygen piping, hoses, ortubing (e.g., 861, 863, 865); electrical lines (e.g., 819, 839, 849);cables or wiring (e.g., 837, 847), or the like.

Still referring to FIG. 8, the control box 811 may include a pump orcompressor (e.g., 813) (such as a vacuum pump); one or more relays(e.g., 814); one or more controller devices (e.g., 812) (such as one ormore digital controllers); one or more pressure sensors (e.g., 815); oneor more displays (e.g., 816); an electrical line 819 connecting a firstpower source 801 to the control box and the digital controller 812;electrical lines, cables, or wires 817 connecting the digital controller812 to a relay 814; electrical lines, cables, or wires 818 connectingthe relay 814 to the vacuum pump 813; cables, or wires 816 connectingthe digital controller 812 to the pressure sensor 815; oxygen piping,hoses, or tubing 861 connecting the vacuum pump 813 to the oxygengenerators 851-856; oxygen piping, hoses, or tubing 863 connecting thevacuum pump 813 to the oxygen tank 821; oxygen piping, hoses, or tubing865 connecting the pressure sensor 815 to the oxygen tank 821; cables orwiring 837 connecting the digital controller 812 to a first relay 833 ofthe first remote relay and outlet box 831; cables or wiring 847connecting the digital controller 812 to a second relay 843 of thesecond remote relay and outlet box 841, or the like.

The one or more displays (e.g., 816) may be, for example, an LCD(“liquid crystal diode”) display or an LED (“light emitting diode”)display. The one or more displays (e.g., 816) may include a touch-screenuser interface or be configured as a touch-screen display. The one ormore displays (e.g., 816) may be communicatively coupled to the digitalcontroller 812, one or more other digital controllers, one or morecomputing devices, one or more computer systems, one or more computernetworks, one or more wired or wireless networks, or the like.

Further referring to FIG. 8, the first remote relay and outlet box 831may be located away from the oxygen tank 821 and the control box 811.The first remote relay and outlet box 831 may include an electrical line839 connected to a power source 803; a first relay connected to theelectrical line 839, the cable or wire 837, and an electrical line topower outlets 835; and the power outlets 835 for the oxygen generators(e.g., 851-853). For example, the power source 803 may be a 110 volt, 20amp power source on a fully designated 20 amp breaker. The first relay833 may be configured to receive power from the power source 803 via theelectrical line 839, controllably provide power to power outlets 835 foroxygen generators (e.g., 851-853), and receive and/or send signals fromor to the digital controller 812 via a cable or wire 837.

The second remote relay and outlet box 841 may be located away from theoxygen tank 821 and the control box 811. The second remote relay andoutlet box 841 may include an electrical line 849 connected to a powersource 805; a second relay 843 connected to the electrical line 849, thecable or wire 847, and an electrical line to power outlets 845; and thepower outlets 845 for the oxygen generators (e.g., 854-856). Forexample, the power source 805 may be a 110 volt, 20 amp power source ona fully designated 20 amp breaker. The second relay 843 may beconfigured to receive power from the power source 805 via the electricalline 839, controllably provide power to power outlets 835 for oxygengenerators (e.g., 851-853), and receive and/or send signals from or tothe digital controller 812 via a cable or wire 837.

The nonproximity of the remote relay and outlet boxes (e.g., 831, 841)to the control box 811 may be safer because the first relay 833, thesecond relay 843, power outlets to the oxygen generators (e.g., 835,845), and electrical lines (e.g., 839,849) associated with powering theoxygen generators (e.g., 851-856) may be located a safer distance awayfrom the compressed oxygen lines (e.g., 863, 865) and the oxygen tank821 near the control box 811. Additionally, the first remote relay andoutlet box (e.g., 831) may be located in closer to proximity to thefirst power source 831 connected to a fully designated breaker (such asa first 110 volt, 20 amp power source connected to a first fullydesignated 20 amp breaker); and the second remote relay and outlet box(e.g., 841) may be located in closer proximity to the second powersource 841 connected to a second fully designated breaker (such as asecond 110 volt, 20 amp power source connected to a second fullydesignated 20 amp breaker).

Referring to FIGS. 9 and 10, a diagram of an embodiment of an oxygengenerating system 900 is depicted in FIG. 9. As similarly describedabove, the oxygen generating system may include a control box 931; anoxygen tank 941; a first relay box 911; a second relay box 913; a firstpower source 901; a second power source 903; oxygen generators 921-926;communication or data cables or wires 961 connecting the control box 931to the first relay box 911; communication or data cables or wires 963connecting the first relay box 911 to the second relay box 913;electrical lines 951 connecting the first power source 901 to the firstrelay box 911; electrical lines 953 connecting the second power source903 to the second relay box 913; electrical lines 955 connecting thefirst relay box to a first bank of oxygen generators (e.g., 921-923);electrical lines 957 connecting the second relay box to a second bank ofoxygen generators (e.g., 924-926); and oxygen piping, hoses, or tubing971 connecting the oxygen generators 921-926 to the control box 931. Thecontrol box 931 may be communicatively coupled with the first relay box911 and the second relay box 913 via communication cables or wires 961,963. The control box 931 may function as a main control box (see, e.g.,1031) communicatively coupled with one or more other control boxes (see,e.g., 1031).

For example, the oxygen generating system 900 may include a 114 liter(30 gallon) oxygen storage tank (e.g., 941) and 6 oxygen generators(e.g., 921-926), each of the oxygen generators (e.g., 921-926) designedto produce approximately 10 liters of oxygen per minute (under oneexample of contemplated operating pressures), such that the oxygengenerating system 900 may produce 60 liters of oxygen per minute whilestoring up to 114 liters of compressed oxygen in the oxygen storage tank(e.g., 941).

Referring to FIG. 10, the oxygen generating system 900 of FIG. 9 can beexpanded indefinitely into a modular oxygen generating system 1000 asdepicted in FIG. 10. The modular expandable oxygen generating system1000 may include the oxygen generating system 900 (which may includecomponents as previously described in reference to FIG. 9); one or morecommunications or data cables or wires 1065 communicatively coupling arelay box (such as the second relay box 913) of oxygen generating system900 or the main control box 931 of the oxygen generating system 900 to acontrol box (such as a drone control box 1031) or a relay box (e.g.,1011, 1013) of an expansion oxygen generating system (e.g., 1000A). Someimplementations may include the use of relay boxes, while otherimplementations may include components of the relay box (e.g., 1011,1013) as part of the control box (e.g., 931, 1031).

The expansion oxygen generating system 1000A may include the control box(such as the drone control box 1031); an oxygen tank 1041; a first relaybox 1011; a second relay box 1013; a first power source 1001; a secondpower source 1003; oxygen generators 1021-1026; communication or datacables or wires 1061 connecting the control box 1031 to the first relaybox 1011; communication or data cables or wires 1063 connecting thefirst relay box 1011 to the second relay box 1013; electrical lines 1051connecting the first power source 1001 to the first relay box 1011;electrical lines 1053 connecting the second power source 1003 to thesecond relay box 1013; electrical lines 1055 connecting the first relaybox to a first bank of oxygen generators (e.g., 1021-1023); electricallines 1057 connecting the second relay box to a second bank of oxygengenerators (e.g., 1024-1026); and oxygen piping, hoses, or tubing 1071connecting the oxygen generators 1021-1026 to the control box 1031. Thecontrol box 1031 may be communicatively coupled with the first relay box1011 and the second relay box 1013 via communication cables or wires1061, 1063 or a wireless connection. The control box 1031 may functionas a drone control box or as a main control box communicatively coupledwith one or more other control boxes (see, e.g., 931). In someimplementations, the control box 1031 may include a controller device;in other implementations, the control box 1031 may not include acontroller device. A controller device (such as a digital controller) ofthe main control box 931 may indirectly or directly control the firstbank of oxygen generators (e.g., 1021-1023), the second bank of oxygengenerators (e.g., 1024-1026), and the compressor (which may be includedin the control box 1031) of the expansion oxygen generating system1000A.

The controller device of the main oxygen generating system's control box(e.g., 931) may be configured to manage the main oxygen generatingsystem (e.g., 900) as well as any modularly expandable expansion oxygengenerating systems (e.g., 1000A). As similarly described above, thecontroller device of the main oxygen generating system's control box(e.g., 931) may be configured for controlling the main system oil-lessair compressor and at least two main system circuits for providing powerto the at least two main system groups of at least one oxygen generator,the at least two main system circuits including a first main systemcircuit and a second main system circuit, the first main system circuitassociated with the first main system group of at least one oxygengenerator and the second main system circuit associated with the secondmain system group of at least one oxygen generator. Additionally, thecontroller device of the main oxygen generating system's control box(e.g., 931) may be configured for controlling a particular expansionoxygen generating system's oil-less air compressor and at least twoparticular expansion system circuits for providing power to the at leasttwo particular expansion system groups of at least one oxygen generator,the at least two particular expansion system circuits including a firstparticular expansion system circuit and a second particular expansionsystem circuit, the first particular expansion system circuit associatedwith the first particular expansion system group of at least one oxygengenerator and the second particular expansion system circuit associatedwith the second particular expansion system group of at least one oxygengenerator.

The modularly expandable oxygen generating system (e.g., 1000) may beconfigured and arranged in a multitude of manners. For example, in someimplementations, the modularly expandable oxygen generating system(e.g., 1000) may be configured such that an outlet of the particularexpansion system oxygen storage tank is configured to couple with themain system oxygen storage tank or with an outflow of oxygen from themain system oxygen storage tank; however, in other implementations,outlets of some or all of the storage tanks of the modularly expandableoxygen generating system (e.g., 1000) may not be coupled. The particularexpansion oxygen generating system (e.g., 1000A) may be removablycoupled to the main oxygen generating system. In some implementations,the expansion control box (e.g., 1031) may be a drone control box,wherein the drone control box lacks a digital controller and relies onthe digital controller of the main control box (e.g., 931) of the mainoxygen generating system (e.g., 900) to activate relies of the expansionoxygen generating system (e.g., 1000A). Additionally, expansion oxygengenerating systems (e.g., 1000A) may include pressure sensors, whereineach pressure sensors is configured to sense pressure associated with anexpansion system storage tank (e.g., 1041) and communicate the pressurevia a signal to a particular controller device (such as a digitalcontroller of the main control box 931 or the expansion control box1031). Embodied implementations of a modularly expandable oxygengenerating system (e.g., 1000) are contemplated such that particularoxygen generating subsystems (e.g., 900 or 1000A) may be concurrentlyand simultaneously managed while particular components of oxygengenerating subsystems may operating at different pressures or havedifferent operating requirements (such as different oxygen outflowrequirements).

The modular oxygen generating system 1000 as depicted in FIG. 10 canproduce oxygen much more quickly, and significantly more oxygen can bestored. For example, where each of the oxygen generating system 900 andthe expansion oxygen generating system 1000A include a 114 liter (30gallon) oxygen storage tank (e.g., 941, 1041) and 6 oxygen generators(e.g., 921-926, 1021-1026), each of the oxygen generators designed toproduce approximately 10 liters of oxygen per minute (under designedoperating pressures), then the modular oxygen generating system 1000 mayproduce 120 liters of oxygen per minute while storing up to 228 litersof compressed oxygen in the oxygen storage tank.

Subsystems of the modular generating system 1000 can be decoupled tooperate as independent oxygen generating systems such oxygen generatingsystem 900 and oxygen generating system 1000A.

Referring to FIG. 11, an embodied method 1100 associated with managingan oxygen generating system is depicted. It is contemplated thatembodiments of the method 1100 may be performed by a control box or oneor more controller devices of a control box. The method 1100 may includeany or all of steps 1105, 1110, 1115, 1120, 1125, 1130, 1135, 1140,1145, 1150, or 1155, and it is contemplated that the method 1100 mayinclude additional steps as disclosed throughout, but not explicitly setforth in this paragraph. Further, it is fully contemplated that thesteps of method 1100 may be performed concurrently or in anon-sequential order.

The method 1100 may include a step 1105 which comprises receivingelectrical power. Step 1105 may include receiving electrical power froma single electrical circuit line (such as a nominal 220 volt line) orfrom two or more electrical circuit lines (such as two or more nominal110 volt lines). The method 1100 may include a step 1110 which comprisessensing a first pressure to be less than or equal to a first startupthreshold pressure, said first pressure associated with a gaseouspressure of an oil-less tank. The method 1100 may include a step 1115which comprises providing electrical power to an oil-less aircompressor. The method 1100 may include a step 1120 which comprisescompleting a first circuit, said first circuit for providing electricalpower to a first group of at least one oxygen generator. The method 1100may include a step 1125 which comprises sensing a second pressure to beless than or equal to a second startup threshold pressure, said secondpressure associated with a gaseous pressure of the oil-less tank,wherein the second startup threshold pressure is greater than the firststartup threshold pressure. The method 1100 may include a step 1130which comprises completing a second circuit, said second circuit forproviding power to a second group of at least one oxygen generator. Themethod 1100 may include a step 1135 which comprises sensing a thirdpressure to be greater than or equal to a first shutoff thresholdpressure, said third pressure associated with a gaseous pressure of theoil-less tank. The method 1100 may include a step 1140 which comprisesopening the first circuit. The method 1100 may include a step 1145 whichcomprises sensing a fourth pressure to be greater than or equal to asecond shutoff threshold pressure, said fourth pressure associated witha gaseous pressure of the oil-less tank, wherein the second shutoffthreshold pressure is greater than the first shutoff threshold pressure.The method 1100 may include a step 1150 which comprises opening thesecond circuit. The method 1100 may include a step 1155 which comprisescutting power to the oil-less air compressor.

Referring to FIG. 12, an embodied method 1200 associated with managingan oxygen generating system is depicted. It is contemplated thatembodiments of the method 1200 may be performed by a control box or oneor more controller devices of a control box. The method 1200 may includeany or all of steps 1205, 1210, 1215, 1220, 1225, 1230, 1235, 1240,1245, 1250, 1255, 1260, 1265, or 1270, and it is contemplated that themethod 1200 may include additional steps as disclosed throughout, butnot explicitly set forth in this paragraph. Further, it is fullycontemplated that the steps of method 1200 may be performed concurrentlyor in a non-sequential order.

The method 1200 may include a step 1205 which comprises receiving afirst pressure signal associated with a first pressure. The method 1200may include a step 1210 which comprises determining the first pressureto be less than or equal to a first startup threshold pressure, saidfirst pressure associated with a gaseous pressure of the oil-less tank.The method 1200 may include a step 1215 which comprises sending a signalto switch the oil-less air compressor on. The method 1200 may include astep 1220 which comprises sending a signal to switch a first circuit on,said first circuit for providing electrical power to a first bank of atleast oxygen generator. The method 1200 may include a step 1225 whichcomprises receiving a second pressure signal associated with a secondpressure. The method 1200 may include a step 1230 which comprisesdetermining the second pressure to be less than or equal to a secondstartup threshold pressure, said second pressure associated with agaseous pressure of the oil-less tank, wherein the second startupthreshold pressure is greater than the first startup threshold pressure.The method 1200 may include a step 1235 which comprises sending a signalto switch a second circuit on, said second circuit for providing powerto a second bank of at least one oxygen generator. The method 1200 mayinclude a step 1240 which comprises receiving a third pressure signalassociated with a third pressure. The method 1200 may include a step1245 which comprises determining the third pressure to be greater thanor equal to a first shutoff threshold pressure, said third pressureassociated with a gaseous pressure of the oil-less tank. The method 1200may include a step 1250 which comprises sending a signal to switch thefirst circuit off. The method 1200 may include a step 1255 whichcomprises receiving a fourth pressure signal associated with a fourthpressure. The method 1200 may include a step 1260 which comprisesdetermining the fourth pressure to be greater than or equal to a secondshutoff threshold pressure, said fourth pressure associated with agaseous pressure of the oil-less tank, wherein the second shutoffthreshold pressure is greater than the first shutoff threshold pressure.The method 1200 may include a step 1265 which comprises sending a signalto switch the second circuit off. The method 1200 may include a step1270 which comprises sending a signal to switch the oil-less aircompressor off.

It is believed that the present invention and many of its attendantadvantages will be understood by the foregoing description, and it willbe apparent that various changes may be made in the form, construction,and arrangement of the components thereof without departing from thescope and spirit of the invention or without sacrificing all of itsmaterial advantages. The form herein before described being merely anexplanatory embodiment thereof, it is the intention of the followingclaims to encompass and include such changes.

What is claimed is:
 1. A system for managing an oxygen generating system, wherein the oxygen generating system includes an oxygen storage tank, a compressor, and oxygen generators, the oxygen generating system configured for supplying a sustained flow of a gaseous mixture comprising mostly oxygen, the system comprising: a first circuit; a second circuit; and at least one controller device configured to: control the first circuit based at least upon at least one pressure, the first circuit for providing power to at least two oxygen generators; and control the second circuit for providing power to the compressor and to at least one oxygen generator.
 2. The system of claim 1, wherein each of the first circuit and the second circuit is an electrical circuit on a fully dedicated circuit breaker.
 3. The system of claim 1, wherein the first circuit is an electrical circuit on a fully dedicated circuit breaker.
 4. The system of claim 2, wherein each fully dedicated circuit breaker is configured for up to 2400 watts of power, wherein a total amperage requirement of the first circuit is less than or equal to 20 amperes, wherein a total amperage requirement of the second circuit is less than or equal to 20 amperes.
 5. The system of claim 4, wherein the at least one controller device comprises a digital controller comprising at least one processor.
 6. The system of claim 4, wherein the at least one controller device comprises an analog controller.
 7. The system of claim 4, wherein the at least one controller device comprises a pneumatic controller.
 8. The system of claim 1, wherein the at least one controller device comprises a digital controller.
 9. The system of claim 8, wherein the digital controller comprises at least one processor.
 10. The system of claim 1, wherein the at least one controller device comprises an analog controller.
 11. The system of claim 1, wherein the at least one controller device comprises a pneumatic controller.
 12. The system of claim 1, wherein the at least one controller device comprises a first controller device and a second controller device, wherein the first controller device is configured to control the first circuit, wherein the second controller device is configured to control the second circuit.
 13. The system of claim 1, further comprising a first relay and a second relay, wherein the first relay is coupled to the first circuit and the at least one controller device, wherein the second relay is coupled to the second circuit and the at least one controller device.
 14. A system for managing a modularly expandable oxygen generating system, the modularly expandable oxygen generating system including a main oxygen generating system and at least one expansion oxygen generating system, the system comprising: at least one controller device configured to: manage the main oxygen generating system, wherein the main oxygen generating system includes a main system oxygen storage tank, a main system compressor, and main system oxygen generators, the main oxygen generating system configured to supply a sustained flow of a gaseous mixture comprising mostly oxygen, wherein the at least one controller device being configured to manage the main oxygen generating system includes the at least one controller device being configured to: control a first main system circuit for providing power to at least two main system oxygen generators; and control a second main system circuit for providing power to the main system compressor; and manage a particular expansion oxygen generating system of the at least one expansion oxygen generating system, wherein the particular expansion oxygen generating system includes a particular expansion system compressor and expansion system oxygen generators, wherein the at least one controller device being configured to manage the particular expansion oxygen generating system of the at least one expansion oxygen generating system includes the at least one controller device being configured to: control a first expansion system circuit for providing power to at least two expansion system oxygen generators; and control a second expansion system circuit for providing power to the particular expansion system compressor.
 15. The system of claim 14, wherein each of the first and second main system circuits is an electrical circuit on a fully dedicated circuit breaker.
 16. The system of claim 14, wherein the second main system circuit is an electrical circuit on a fully dedicated circuit breaker.
 17. The system of claim 15, wherein each fully dedicated circuit breaker is configured for up to 2400 watts of power, wherein a total amperage requirement of the first main system circuit is less than or equal to 20 amperes, wherein a total amperage requirement of the second main system circuit is less than or equal to 20 amperes.
 18. The system of claim 17, wherein the at least one controller device comprises a digital controller comprising at least one processor.
 19. The system of claim 17, wherein the at least one controller device comprises a pneumatic controller and a digital controller comprising at least one processor.
 20. The system of claim 14, wherein the particular expansion oxygen generating system is communicatively coupled to the main oxygen generating system.
 21. The system of claim 14, wherein the particular expansion oxygen generating system further includes a particular expansion system oxygen storage tank.
 22. The system of claim 21, wherein an outlet of the particular expansion system oxygen storage tank is configured to couple with the main system oxygen storage tank or an outflow of oxygen from the main system oxygen storage tank.
 23. A system for managing an oxygen generating system, wherein the oxygen generating system includes an oxygen storage tank, a compressor, and oxygen generators, the oxygen generating system configured for supplying a sustained flow of a gaseous mixture comprising mostly oxygen, the system comprising: a first circuit; a second circuit; means for controlling the first circuit based at least upon at least one pressure, the first circuit for providing power to at least two oxygen generators; and means for controlling the second circuit for providing power to the compressor and at least one oxygen generator. 